If you're experiencing blackheads or acne, you may have heard that you need to "open up" your pores to clean them out. Experts agree that you can't actually open up your pores, as they essentially stay the same size.[1] However, you do have several options for thoroughly cleaning out your pores, which can make your pores look smaller in appearance, even if they don't change size. Lifestyle factors, like eating well and exercising, can help keep your pores clean, too.

Steps

Method1

Cleaning Out Pores with a Clay Mask

1

Wash your face. To prepare your face for the clay mask, wash it with warm water and pat it dry.

Be sure the water is warm, not hot.

2

Use a clay mask. With your fingertips or a fan brush, apply a thin layer of the clay mask on your face in sweeping motions. Avoid your eyes and mouth. Clay masks will pull out the dirt and oil in your pores.[2]

Clay masks are best for people with oily, non-sensitive skin. They may be too intense for sensitive skin types.

3

Wait for the mask to dry. Don't let the mask dry completely. It should start to change colors (look lighter) but still feel tacky to the touch. If you let it dry completely, it pulls the moisture out of your skin.[3]

If the clay mask comes off when you touch it, it's still too wet.

4

Rinse the mask off. Use water to soften the clay. Use a washcloth to scrub your face clean, being sure to remove all the mask.[4]

You can use clay masks up to 2-3 times per week, depending on how your skin responds.

Method2

Using Steam to Clean Out Pores

1

Place hot water on a washcloth. Run your tap until it's hot. Thoroughly soak the washcloth.[5]

2

Wring out the excess water. The washcloth doesn't need to be soaking.

3

Hold it over your face. Hold the warm washcloth over your face to steam out your pores.[6] The steam helps loosen dirt, make-up, and such in your pores.[7]

4

Repeat the process. As the washcloth cools, continue to heat up the washcloth with new hot water, and hold it over your face, up to three or four times.[8]

5

Wash your face. Wash your face thoroughly but gently with a foaming facial cleanser to remove the dirt and oil you've steamed out of your pores.[9]

Washing your face after steaming is key. While steaming breaks up hardened dirt and oil in your pores, your face wash actually cleans that dirt and oil from your face. If you skip this step, steaming won’t be effective.

Method3

Applying a Parsley Wash

1

Wash a handful of fresh parsley. You can leave the stems on, but be sure to wash out any grime.[10]

Method5

Visiting a Dermatologist

You can ask for an exfoliant, such as Retin-A Micro. Exfoliants clear away dead skin cells that clog pores. Use this treatment especially if your skin looks ashy, as you could have a build of dry skin.[22]

You can also have an acid peel to exfoliate skin, such as glycolic or salicylic acid.[23] You'll need more than one of these treatments for noticeable results.[24] As with the acid peel, use this treatment if you have a buildup of dry skin.

Another option is using lights or lasers, whether IPL (Intense Pulse Light therapy) or LED.[25] This treatment increases collagen and can make pores seem less noticeable.[26] You can use this treatment in conjunction with an acid peel.

3

Choose the best option for your budget. Keep in mind that these treatments can be expensive, as much as $100-$500.[27]

Method6

Creating a Daily Regimen

1

Take off your make-up. When you get home from a long day, take the time to remove your make-up. If you don’t let your skin breathe at the end of the day, your pores may become clogged.[28]

Avoid oil-based products. Don't use lotions with oil in them, and avoid waterproof make-up, as it is similarly oil-based. These products tend to clog pores.[35]

Method7

Eating Well and Exercising

1

Eat well. What you put into your body affects how it looks on the outside, and your skin is no exception. For clearer pores, eat a balanced diet heavy in fruits and veggies. Try to eat at least 5 portions a day--your skin will thank you for the antioxidant boost. Avoid simple sugars, like white bread, pasta, and rice, which can trigger inflammation. Instead, go for whole grains.[36]

Healthy fats, like those found in avocados, nuts, seeds, and fish, are also great for your skin.